Superstar fundraisers
Our incredible Junior and Youth Ambassadors have been busy hiking, running, cycling and swimming to support Born Free.
L-R: Leo, Thea and Charlotte, Hector
As well as being a voice for wild animals, our Junior and Youth Ambassadors have been going the extra mile, taking part in all manner of sporting challenges over the past few months to raise over £1,000 for Born Free! We hear from them about their motivations and how they got on.
Leo, aged 10
Born Free Junior Ambassador
“This summer, I joined many Born Free supporters in the Walk on the Wild Side challenge. As I was going to the Olympic Games in France, I wanted to do a mini-triathlon and swim, run and cycle 150 kms throughout the month of August and raise as much money as possible for the lions. I also took part in the Paris Olympics Connected Mass Participation Mini-Marathon on World Lion Day. It was actually quite difficult to reach 150 kilometres and took a very long time. When it was very hard, I thought about the lions. I just made it at the end of the month, and I raised £300. It felt amazing knowing that I did it for Born Free and the lions.”
Thea, and friend Charlotte, aged 12 and 13
Born Free Junior Ambassador
“We did it! My best friend Charlotte and I completed the Junior Great North Run for Born Free. It was great weather and an amazing atmosphere, I even convinced my Dad to join us dressed as a lion! It was a really fun experience and the furthest I’ve ever run so I had a huge sense of achievement when we crossed the finish line. But the best thing about the day was raising over £600 for Born Free, thank you so much to everyone who sponsored us! I really encourage other people out there to take part in a fundraising event, together we can help Born Free to make a positive difference for wildlife.”
Hector, aged 14
Born Free Youth Ambassador
“I first become involved with Born Free after hearing about the fate of Cecil the lion. Ever since then lions have been important to me, and I want to do what I can to help them. This is the second time I have participated in Walk on The Wild Side – both times it’s been a really hot day! This year I researched what would happen to the ecosystem if we lost lions, so people donating could know why it is so important to protect wild lions.
“I set off early to avoid the heat of the day, but it was still challenging, lots of water needed. 23,000 steps, one of each of the remaining lions felt like a long way, but each time I put a foot down it demonstrated that there aren’t many lions left at all, and they could become extinct in my lifetime. Being outside, walking through woods and across grasslands was peaceful. The quiet let me think about the lions out in their habitat, under the same sun as me which was poignant to feel. I am very grateful for the generosity which allowed me to beat my target of £500. Thank you so much.”
Leo in action!
YOU CAN HELP!
If you are inspired by our intrepid Youth and Junior Ambassadors, there are plenty of ways you can support wildlife and fundraise for Born Free. From cakes sales and fun runs, to marathons and even international challenges, your support can make a huge difference for wild animals in need.
Not sure where to start? Download our free fundraising pack !